Witness

While pointing to a physical mountain (Samaria), Jesus said no longer would centralized worship take place, because God is looking for those who worship in spirit and truth. (John chapter 4) Obviously, there were true, faithful believers since Christ who took his words to heart and built their faith on his teachings, for the larger part of 2,000 years.  Along comes the Watchtower and changes everything.  Salvation becomes the organization.  The centralized worship of the organization staunchly expects loyalty and dedication to it, and its leadership.  Why did the words Christ spoke to the woman at the well become valueless?
Because men were inspired by a spirit other than that of God.  Matt 24:24; Rev 13:11,15
 

While pointing to a physical mountain (Samaria), Jesus said no longer would centralized worship take place, because God is looking for those who worship in spirit and truth. (John chapter 4) Obviously, there were true, faithful believers since Christ who took his words to heart and built their faith on his teachings, for the larger part of 2,000 years.  Along comes the Watchtower and changes everything.  Salvation becomes the organization.  The centralized worship of the organization staunchly expects loyalty and dedication to it, and its leadership.  Why did the words Christ spoke to the woman at the well become valueless?
Because men were inspired by a spirit other than that of God.  Matt 24:24; Rev 13:11,15
 

I find it interesting when so much is compared between the Jews and the JW's.
But in my opinion, one big difference between being a Jew before and in the time of Jesus, and being a JW, is choice. 
If a person was born into the Nation of Israel, they were born under Law and ruled over by the Religious leaders (and the Romans) at that time. There was no choice of being a Jew or not being a Jew. They were born into it. So of course many of them, probably all of them, committed 'sin' and had to make sin offerings. God had chosen that Nation, those people had responsibility but not of their choice. 
Now, people that enter the JW religion do so voluntarily.  ( Unfortunately for those born into it, they have to go through the motions of serving the JW Org until they are of an age whereby they can leave home. Then, when of age they too can volunteer to be a JW or chose to leave the Org.). 
There is a big difference from being born into a Nation which you may not like, than voluntarily joining a religion which you do like.
So the big question is, if 'millions' of people voluntarily join this JW Org, why do so many commit child abuse, adultery and many other sins ? 
If this is supposed to be 'THE true religion', why are the people not guided by God through Jesus  Christ ?  Just reading comments on here from so called JW's makes me laugh. There is no love, no mercy, no understanding, no respect even. 
Being an ex JW and seeing things from both sides i have found more genuine love, kindness, friendship, respect, warmth, understanding etc outside of the Org than inside. Inside the Org people have to be told to 'love one another', outside the Org people do it anyway. 
It has amazed me how JW's can really believe that God is with them when they are so cold and selfish.
With the Jews that were born into that Nation, they had no choice about their way of life. It was basically a dictatorship by God. The Laws were from 'above'. Obviously for the right reason, to bring forth Jesus Christ who in turn would 'rescue' the human race from complete destruction. But it was a totally different situation to the JW Org today.
So now all you 'JWs', think on it. Do you truly believe you are in this' special environment' within the Org ? Do you really think that your Org has God's approval ? 
Think deeply about all the problems within JW Org. All the disgusting things being done voluntarily by all the volunteer JW's. 
Now ask yourself, are you really a volunteer JW or are you trapped in the Org for fear of losing all those 'so called friends' ? 
You know that you can only have your family and 'friends' as long as you are a JW.   Do you feel like the Jews must have felt, trapped in that Nation ? 
As we know many of the Jews left the Jewish religion and way of life to follow Christ, but it was difficult for them. However, they did have God's approval and God, through Christ made this known clearly. And it seems that many are leaving the JW Org to seek God's approval too. 
But remember that all JW's are volunteers, or should be, so why oh why is there so much trouble in that Org ? 
 

I do, and I realize that at least you wear your heart on your sleeve; while the GB members feign piety as they direct each person who resists their headship when choosing Christ instead,  to be cut off from all family and friends...and marked as "dead".  This also includes those who know that a lie is always a lie, and truth is always truth.  John 15:16  Little does the GB realize how this can relieve the oppressive load men put on men for their selfish gain.  Matt 5:10,11; 10:39; 19:29; John 16:2; Matt 13:22; 2 Tim 4:3; Rev 13:15; Jer 6:13

It is very disheartening to see how you degrade people, more so than any person I have ever met; whether they are your "brothers" or your enemies.  Each one receives the same degradation as the next.  I am never disappointed in how you fulfill that role.  
Biblical laws are the Word of God in Christ.  I follow Christ; you follow men.  I think you mean I have broken men's laws that you perceive as coming from Jesus Christ.  This is called blind slavery to men's lust for power.  2 Cor 4:4
Don’t you know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness? Rom 6:16
You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of people.  1 Cor 7:23
knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.  Col 3:24
 For am I now trying to persuade people, or God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.  Gal 1:10
Put no more trust in a mere human, who has only the breath in his nostrils. What is he really worth?  Isa 2:22
 

Jesus gave the early disciples the signs of that coming system’s demise and when those who still remained in Jerusalem, were to leave.  The Romans had already set up authority over Jerusalem, the “Holy City” and temple.   They were the “abomination”/Gentiles standing in the “holy place”.  Matt 24:15  The Roman army represented their emperor, carrying his iconic image and the image of the legion, and were bestowed with honor.
“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that its desolation has come near. 21 Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Those inside the city must leave it, and those who are in the country must not enter it, 22 because these are days of vengeance to fulfill all the things that are written. Luke 21:20-22 
Jesus warned them to leave and flee to the mountains.  Matt 24:16  They were not to stick around upon recognizing this threat.  Those that remained in Jerusalem until its fall, lost their lives – millions of them. 
There is another fulfillment of these scriptures – a spiritual fulfillment.  Today’s “Temple” in the anointed ones is “surrounded by armies” – the “Gentile” nation of unanointed elders.  While the anointed must remain “humble”, the elders are bestowed with honor.  The elders have breached the “temple walls” carrying their lies and setting up an “abomination of desolation”. Dan 11:31  This “royal priesthood” is restricted in the way they are to worship, they must rely on the “daily sacrifices” coming from an “emperor” and his army, and not on truth from Jesus Christ.  Matt 21:33; Neh 1:3  They are powerless and scattered.  Rev 13:1,2,5-8
 In addition, anointed Christians do not view themselves as being part of an elite club. They do not seek out others who claim to have the same calling, hoping to bond with them or endeavoring to form private groups for Bible study. (Gal. 1:15-17) Such efforts would cause divisions within the congregation and work against the holy spirit, which promotes peace and unity.—Read Romans 16:17, 18. WT 16/1 p.24
God gave them Holy Spirit to teach the people. Mal 2:7; 1 John 2:27  In the Watchtower, they are refrained from utilizing this gift by offering  “daily sacrifices of praise.” that  are to come from their heart; not from an elder body who delivers rotten food from a wicked slave.  Matt 24:48-51 (1 Pet 2:5,9)
Many people will say Matt 24:15 doesn’t have any further fulfillment.  But notice Rev 11:1,2 which was written after Jerusalem’s downfall:
Then I was given a measuring reed like a rod,[a] with these words: “Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count those who worship there. But exclude the courtyard outside the temple. Don’t measure it, because it is given to the nations,[a](Gentiles) and they will trample the holy city for forty-two months.  Rev 11:1,2
The “holy city” is the Temple/New Jerusalem and the dwelling of God – the anointed ones.  (Gal 4:26;Rev 21:2)
Don’t you yourselves know that you are God’s temple and that the Spirit of God lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and that is what you are. 1 Cor 3:16,17
Has the dual power in the organization “destroyed” the anointed ones/God’s temple?  Spiritually, yes.  They have been replaced by the elders, and have allowed “images” of an idol/ organization to over-run their worship.   They obey the elder army and are excluded from speaking and uniting in truth under Jesus Christ. 
2 Thess 2:
 “Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him: We ask you, brothers and sisters, 2 not to be easily upset or troubled, either by a prophecy[a] or by a message or by a letter supposedly from us, alleging that the day of the Lord has come.3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the apostasy[c](rebellion) comes first and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 4 He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he sits (rules) in God’s temple, proclaiming that he himself is God.”
If we remember Wt’s latest admittance that Christendom is not anti-typical Jerusalem, then we know where this message will have its fulfillment, which is where the true Temple/anointed ones are gathered and surrounded, by an “army” of spiritual, “uncircumcised Gentiles”.   It is in the WT that the proclamation has been made concerning the “day of the Lord”, as 1914.  The apostasy/”man of lawlessness”/”Gentiles”/”abomination” over God’s spiritual Temple is evident. 
When we perceive this, we are to flee.  Remaining inside is a treacherous proposition.  But as we know, the WT uses deceit to hold God’s Temple members and their companions, hostage to a lie.
"To survive, we must keep our faith strong and loyally worship Jehovah with his organization...May each one of us stay close to Jehovah and move ahead with his organization"ws14 5/15 pp. 21-26 
And may each one, "listen, obey, and be blessed" by following their regime, not to the structure God has already outlined within the anointed Body of Christ.
 
 
Pearl Doxsey - First the "wall"...then the entire "Temple"  4womaninthewilderness

Did it ever occur to you that maybe Christ expects his servants to fulfill their obligation to speak truth?  John 15:26; Rev 11:1-3  

Coming from a man who constantly tells everyone, “learn scripture”.  I provided scripture and you reject it. 
 
Who are you talking about?  The anointed or those not anointed?  I spoke of the anointed ones.
1 Cor 12:12-27 (if that is what you mean, but do read the entire chapter)  speaks of the “gifts of the spirit”.  Are you having a hard time accepting the fact that these various gifts were given exclusively to the anointed?
Satan also is very aware of who comprise the Body of Christ.  Let me show you what I mean. Here is truth:
WT 63/9/1 pp. 537-538  “Temple” is also used in a symbolic sense to include Jesus Christ and his body members, or the 144,001, as Jehovah’s arrangement for the carrying on of true worship, a sanctuary for God to inhabit by spirit. This can be clearly seen from reading Ephesians 2:20-22. Since this symbolic temple was represented by the anointed Christians on earth in his day, Paul could also use this name as applying in a representative way when he wrote to the congregation at Corinth: “Do you not know that the body of you people is the temple of the holy spirit?” (1 Cor. 6:19) And at Revelation 21:22 “temple” has yet another significance when Jehovah God and the Lamb Jesus Christ are said to be the temple ofthe New Jerusalem.”
Most of the Scriptural terms that apply to the 144,000 members of Christ’s body apart from their Head do so quite obviously. Among such are “Christ’s body,” “the body of the Christ,” “the bride, the Lamb’s wife.” And since the “Lamb’s wife” is also termed “the holy city, New Jerusalem,” it follows that this name also applies only to the 144,000 body members. This is borne out by the description of it in Revelation chapter 21.—1 Cor. 12:27; Eph. 4:12; Rev. 21:2, 9, 10.
Look at 1 Cor 12:27 which is a scripture you also listed:
1 Cor 12:27-31: Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28 And God has appointed these in the church (body): first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31 But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.
These gifts are also spoken of in Eph 4:7-13
 But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. 8 Therefore He says:
“When He ascended on high,
He led captivity captive,
And gave gifts to men.”
9 (Now this, “He ascended”—what does it mean but that He also first descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)
11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ
The Body of the anointed ones, with Jesus as their Head, has received gifts from the Holy Spirit. Here, Watchtower also tells truth:
From “Mans Salvation Out of World Distress at Hand”:
These “gifts in men” were among the captives that he led away as a result of his giving his human soul as a ransom for the condemned world of mankind. (Matthew 20:28; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6) Such “gifts in men,” the resurrected, ascended Jesus Christ bestows upon his congregation of 144,000 anointed joint heirs, to strengthen them all to fight a triumphant warfare against this world and its god and thereby to share with Jesus in vindicating the universal sovereignty of Jehovah God. To them he says, in Revelation 3:21: “To the one that conquers I will grant to sit down with me on my throne, even as I conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” 
As you can see, these earlier publications explain that the Body of Christ are the “144,000”, and  explains that the many gifts through Holy Spirit, were given to them.
However, Satan also has the determined ability to morph truth into a lie, with a purpose in mind.
 "And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings (Christs’s kings, Rev 1:5) of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty."  Rev 16:13,14
Developing, “unclean” expressions, that begin as truth, turn into plaguing lies - as a plague of frogs.  (Exod 😎
 The “gifts to/unto/in men” are now said to be given to the elders – non anointed elders.
   w02 3/15 p. 15    How can we show regard for the appointed elders in the congregation?
10 Our Leader has given the congregations “gifts in men”—“some as evangelizers, some as shepherds and teachers.” (Ephesians 4:8, 11, 12) Our attitude and actions toward them speak volumes as to whether we accept Christ’s leadership. It is only right that we ‘show ourselves thankful’ for the spiritually qualified men that Christ has given. (Colossians 3:15) They also deserve our respect.”
Did Jesus or the Father change their mind about who receive the “gifts” bestowed by Holy Spirit? Wouldn’t you consider this, blasphemy against God, Jesus, and the Temple?  Why does the organization say truth from scripture, and then twist it into a lie?  It is to eventually remove all knowledge of who comprise the Temple, the Body of Christ, and the priesthood from the minds of JWs.   
The Beast/organization of Revelation 13, accomplishes this:
“Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.”  Rev 13:6,7
How are the anointed saints overcome?  Well, who has the authority to disfellowship the anointed ones?  The elders.  Who "represents the royal priesthood"?  The elders.  To whom are everyone in the organization told to "honor" and obey?  The elders.     With demonic expressions that begin with acknowledging who the anointed really are, they end with the removing of all evidence…of who they really are - as the anointed Body of Christ.  
 “And I heard the man who was clothed in linen who was above the water of the stream, and he raised his right hand and his left hand to heaven and he swore by the one who lives forever that an appointed time, appointed times, and half an appointed time would pass when the shattering of the power of the holy people would be completed; then all these things will be accomplished.”  Dan 12:7
The “holy people” are the “saints” and the dwelling of God. 1 Cor 3:16,17
 
Truth cannot be explained without the scriptures.  Perhaps it is you, who should learn scripture.  
 
 
 

According to scripture, what is the Body of Christ - who comprise it?

It is very disheartening to see how you degrade people, more so than any person I have ever met; whether they are your "brothers" or your enemies.  Each one receives the same degradation as the next.  I am never disappointed in how you fulfill that role.  
Biblical laws are the Word of God in Christ.  I follow Christ; you follow men.  I think you mean I have broken men's laws that you perceive as coming from Jesus Christ.  This is called blind slavery to men's lust for power.  2 Cor 4:4
Don’t you know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness? Rom 6:16
You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of people.  1 Cor 7:23
knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ.  Col 3:24
 For am I now trying to persuade people, or God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.  Gal 1:10
Put no more trust in a mere human, who has only the breath in his nostrils. What is he really worth?  Isa 2:22
 

I’m glad you asked.  I hadn’t looked at this WT picture for a long while, but then remembered that to be a true anagram, a valid word can be changed into another valid word, like “pat” can become “tap”.
“Tups” is a word meaning,
A ram. ‘tups were set free among the ewes for mating’ – sexual intercourse.
It can also mean, Headbutt (someone) in a fight.
 
This is the anagram, which can also be rearranged to say, “puts” – “Jest Puts Thru Daily”
Or…it can read, “Jests (jokes) Put Thru Daily”
In other words, Satan’s little jokes, like the glossary leaving out, of all things, general identities relating to Christ, pile up in the Watchtower.  
Interestingly, God’s people during the last days, are guilt of spiritual sexual “fornication”, by submitting to an idol, its image and a “false prophet”. 
The headbutting“ram” in Dan 8:3,4:  Then I lifted my eyes and saw, and there, standing beside the river, was a ram which had two horns, and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher one came up last. 4 I saw the ram pushing westward, northward, and southward, so that no animal could withstand him; nor was there any that could deliver from his hand, but he did according to his will and became great.
This is the false prophet/Harlot with two horns of Rev 13:11, that gives authority to the “Beast”/organization/elder body to overpower the anointed ones, with not only lies (jokes) but seducing them into spiritual “sexual immorality” by believing that an organization can bring one salvation.  Idolatry. Rev 13:15
Armageddon is a war of words.  Those who recognize this, can also see why the glossary's exclusions about Jesus, play a part in this war.    2 Cor 11:13-15 
Whatever Satan devises in his realm is a counterfeit. 
 
Pearl Doxsey:  “In this blog article, Obadiah reasons from the Bible, why the JW interpretation of Armageddon is wrong. It is, after all, only mentioned in two verses of Revelation, and in both verses, refers to it as a battle between the lies of Satan (Rev.16:13-16; 17:14), and the truths of Christ (Rev.19:11,15; Heb.4:12), with the messengers of each, battling for the hearts and minds of men (2Cor.10:3-5). There is no need to fear that God is a hypocrite and murderer. Regarding the impact of Armageddon on us as individuals, one only need to make a choice of which side one follows... lies or truths, light or darkness. The Bible proves that the only one who murders and destroys, is the Devil (John10:10; 8:44; Rev.9:11; Isa.33:1).
Obadiah’s Blog – “Armageddon”
Pearl Doxsey – “Who is the Destroyer”
 

Jesus gave the early disciples the signs of that coming system’s demise and when those who still remained in Jerusalem, were to leave.  The Romans had already set up authority over Jerusalem, the “Holy City” and temple.   They were the “abomination”/Gentiles standing in the “holy place”.  Matt 24:15  The Roman army represented their emperor, carrying his iconic image and the image of the legion, and were bestowed with honor.
“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize that its desolation has come near. 21 Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Those inside the city must leave it, and those who are in the country must not enter it, 22 because these are days of vengeance to fulfill all the things that are written. Luke 21:20-22 
Jesus warned them to leave and flee to the mountains.  Matt 24:16  They were not to stick around upon recognizing this threat.  Those that remained in Jerusalem until its fall, lost their lives – millions of them. 
There is another fulfillment of these scriptures – a spiritual fulfillment.  Today’s “Temple” in the anointed ones is “surrounded by armies” – the “Gentile” nation of unanointed elders.  While the anointed must remain “humble”, the elders are bestowed with honor.  The elders have breached the “temple walls” carrying their lies and setting up an “abomination of desolation”. Dan 11:31  This “royal priesthood” is restricted in the way they are to worship, they must rely on the “daily sacrifices” coming from an “emperor” and his army, and not on truth from Jesus Christ.  Matt 21:33; Neh 1:3  They are powerless and scattered.  Rev 13:1,2,5-8
 In addition, anointed Christians do not view themselves as being part of an elite club. They do not seek out others who claim to have the same calling, hoping to bond with them or endeavoring to form private groups for Bible study. (Gal. 1:15-17) Such efforts would cause divisions within the congregation and work against the holy spirit, which promotes peace and unity.—Read Romans 16:17, 18. WT 16/1 p.24
God gave them Holy Spirit to teach the people. Mal 2:7; 1 John 2:27  In the Watchtower, they are refrained from utilizing this gift by offering  “daily sacrifices of praise.” that  are to come from their heart; not from an elder body who delivers rotten food from a wicked slave.  Matt 24:48-51 (1 Pet 2:5,9)
Many people will say Matt 24:15 doesn’t have any further fulfillment.  But notice Rev 11:1,2 which was written after Jerusalem’s downfall:
Then I was given a measuring reed like a rod,[a] with these words: “Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count those who worship there. But exclude the courtyard outside the temple. Don’t measure it, because it is given to the nations,[a](Gentiles) and they will trample the holy city for forty-two months.  Rev 11:1,2
The “holy city” is the Temple/New Jerusalem and the dwelling of God – the anointed ones.  (Gal 4:26;Rev 21:2)
Don’t you yourselves know that you are God’s temple and that the Spirit of God lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and that is what you are. 1 Cor 3:16,17
Has the dual power in the organization “destroyed” the anointed ones/God’s temple?  Spiritually, yes.  They have been replaced by the elders, and have allowed “images” of an idol/ organization to over-run their worship.   They obey the elder army and are excluded from speaking and uniting in truth under Jesus Christ. 
2 Thess 2:
 “Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him: We ask you, brothers and sisters, 2 not to be easily upset or troubled, either by a prophecy[a] or by a message or by a letter supposedly from us, alleging that the day of the Lord has come.3 Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the apostasy[c](rebellion) comes first and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 4 He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he sits (rules) in God’s temple, proclaiming that he himself is God.”
If we remember Wt’s latest admittance that Christendom is not anti-typical Jerusalem, then we know where this message will have its fulfillment, which is where the true Temple/anointed ones are gathered and surrounded, by an “army” of spiritual, “uncircumcised Gentiles”.   It is in the WT that the proclamation has been made concerning the “day of the Lord”, as 1914.  The apostasy/”man of lawlessness”/”Gentiles”/”abomination” over God’s spiritual Temple is evident. 
When we perceive this, we are to flee.  Remaining inside is a treacherous proposition.  But as we know, the WT uses deceit to hold God’s Temple members and their companions, hostage to a lie.
"To survive, we must keep our faith strong and loyally worship Jehovah with his organization...May each one of us stay close to Jehovah and move ahead with his organization"ws14 5/15 pp. 21-26 
And may each one, "listen, obey, and be blessed" by following their regime, not to the structure God has already outlined within the anointed Body of Christ.
 
 
Pearl Doxsey - First the "wall"...then the entire "Temple"  4womaninthewilderness

Every anointed one should have an agenda to uphold Christ's truths.  It is the driving force sourced in Holy Spirit.  The battle of truth against lies may not appear to be "real", but it is a war fought on the spiritual battlefield.  Every heart in the Watchtower must makes a decision in this battle; they either serve the Father and Christ whole-souled, or they chose to be loyal to men and their idol.  Matt 22:37; Joel 3:14
 "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Cor. 10:3-5
It doesn't stop until the "wheat" are completely gathered into the storehouse, which is where the railroad track comes to an end.    Matt 3:12; 13:24-30; 13:40,41; Mal 3:1-6; Matt 13:42,43; Jer 23:29

@BillyTheKid46  Are you really using the Romans 13 scripture to mean the GB ? Are you joking ?
The Superior Authorities to whom we pay taxes are worldly governments. Surely even you can understand that ? 
You are proving day by day that you are not a JW.  
The only power the GB have is what they give themselves and what their servants (most JW's) give them.
The GB has no power given by God or Jesus Christ. 

The disciples and many others have been listening. Now Jesus addresses them, warning about the scribes and the Pharisees. Those men have “seated themselves in the seat of Moses” to teach God’s Law. - source jworg
It seems how, after new interpretations on "secular authority", you put yourself on Moses seat :)))) Or you just copy/paste some WT magazine. If yes, tell the source.
According to your new light, donation money from now have new name - taxes?! And for what purpose? For service of those who governing in WTJWORG. Well, I see from this that JW's have PAID CLERGY, according to this understanding of Bible words.
:)))))) very good 
 

That’s right.  Where in scripture does it say that the GB can place themselves in a higher position than any other anointed one in the organization, including every JW who are not anointed?   Luke 22:24-27
I have no authority over anyone.  How can someone on the outside exalt himself over those who refuse to acknowledge them? 
Do I disfellowship anyone? 
Do I mark them as spiritually “dead”  Rev 13:15
What they practice, Jesus condemned. Matt 24:48-51  And all JWs who condone this practice, obey men and not Christ.  2 Cor 11:20; Acts 5:29
Since the Watchtower finally admits that Christendom is not the "anti-typical" Jerusalem, then, as I said here:
 
...every prophesy concerning God’s anointed people in the last days, takes place in-house.  This means, Christendom is not the Harlot/false prophet of Rev 13:11.  It also means that the “organization” which the Harlot directs, is not the UN. Rev 13:1
"For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; (Eph 2:20-22)  and if it begins with us first, (the anointed ones) what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now
“If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”  1 Pet 4:17,18
 
"And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Render to her just as she rendered to you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix double for her. 7 In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.’ 8 Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and mourning and famine. And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her."  Rev 18:4-8
It is regretful that you are so blind, Allen.  We have strayed very far from the topic; yet, I refer back to the topic by saying those who put their faith in men and an earthly organization, which rules others by it's own laws and decrees, while holding the Bible in one hand, cannot hear what Jesus is telling them.
“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like.  They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.  But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”  Luke 6:46-49
 What did Christ say; to come to "Jehovah's organization", or did he say, "come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  Matt 11:28   
The Watchtower calls such individuals who simply do what Jesus said, as apostates; who's faith is apparently "garbage and needs to be torn down."  Rev 13:16,17
 
 

That’s right.  Where in scripture does it say that the GB can place themselves in a higher position than any other anointed one in the organization, including every JW who are not anointed?   Luke 22:24-27
I have no authority over anyone.  How can someone on the outside exalt himself over those who refuse to acknowledge them? 
Do I disfellowship anyone? 
Do I mark them as spiritually “dead”  Rev 13:15
What they practice, Jesus condemned. Matt 24:48-51  And all JWs who condone this practice, obey men and not Christ.  2 Cor 11:20; Acts 5:29
Since the Watchtower finally admits that Christendom is not the "anti-typical" Jerusalem, then, as I said here:
 
...every prophesy concerning God’s anointed people in the last days, takes place in-house.  This means, Christendom is not the Harlot/false prophet of Rev 13:11.  It also means that the “organization” which the Harlot directs, is not the UN. Rev 13:1
"For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; (Eph 2:20-22)  and if it begins with us first, (the anointed ones) what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now
“If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”  1 Pet 4:17,18
 
"And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. 6 Render to her just as she rendered to you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix double for her. 7 In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.’ 8 Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and mourning and famine. And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her."  Rev 18:4-8
It is regretful that you are so blind, Allen.  We have strayed very far from the topic; yet, I refer back to the topic by saying those who put their faith in men and an earthly organization, which rules others by it's own laws and decrees, while holding the Bible in one hand, cannot hear what Jesus is telling them.
“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like.  They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.  But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”  Luke 6:46-49
 What did Christ say; to come to "Jehovah's organization", or did he say, "come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  Matt 11:28   
The Watchtower calls such individuals who simply do what Jesus said, as apostates; who's faith is apparently "garbage and needs to be torn down."  Rev 13:16,17
 
 

All their immediate needs are met; everything and every form of service is provided for their benefit and is at their fingertips.  Their living circumstances may be even more comfortable than we may assume.  They have the luxury of dressing and eating well, traveling and seeing the world, and personally escorted wherever needed.
But, they lack one thing.  “Wisdom from above”.  Dan.12:3,9,10; Rev.11:3; 1:1; Isa.5:13; 65:13; Luke16:24,25,26; Matt.25:8,9  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Dan.12%3A3%2C9%2C10%3B+Rev.11%3A3%3B+1%3A1%3B+Isa.5%3A13%3B+65%3A13%3B+Luke16%3A24%2C25%2C26%3B+Matt.25%3A8%2C9&version=NKJV
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by GOOD CONDUCT THAT HIS …
~~~~~WORKS~~~~~
 …ARE DONE IN THE MEEKNESS OF WISDOM.”  James 3:13
“The Governing Body is neither inspired nor infallible. Therefore, it can err in doctrinal matters or in organizational direction.“  WT 17/2 pp. 23-28   (Matt 7:15-20) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+7%3A15-20&version=NKJV
“But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, DO NOT BOAST AND LIE AGAINST THE TRUTH.” James 3:14
Gerrit Losch, governing body member, speaks on JW Broadcast, March 2018: 
“So whom do you trust?  You fully trust in Jehovah, Jesus, and the “faithful slave”. 
“This is not to say that the slave is perfect and never makes mistakes, but Jehovah and Jesus trust the imperfect slave who cares for things to the best of his ability AND WITH THE BEST OF MOTIVES.  Shouldn’t we then trust the imperfect slave as well?”
“To appreciate the extent of Jehovah’s and Jesus’ trust in the faithful slave reflect on what he has promised its members. He has promised them immortality and incorruption. Soon, JUST BEFORE ARMAGEDDON the remaining members of the slave will be taken to heaven.” **
 “Since Jehovah God and Jesus Christ COMPLETELY trust the faithful and discreet slave, should we not do the same?”
 “This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.  For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.“  James 3:15,16
“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be…
~~~~~ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS”~~~~~  2 Cor 11:13-15
King Solomon asked for one thing from God when becoming King.
And Solomon said to God: “You have shown great and faithful love to my father David, and you have made me king in his place. 9 Lord God, let your promise to my father David now come true. For you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth. 10 Now grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of yours?”
God said to Solomon, “Since this was in your heart, and you have NOT requested riches, wealth, or glory, or for the life of those who hate you, and you have NOT even requested long life, but you have requested for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may judge my people over whom I have made you king,  wisdom and knowledge are given to you. I will also give you riches, wealth, and glory, unlike what was given to the kings who were before you, or will be given to those after you.”  2 Chron 1:8-12
The granting of wisdom from God preceded Solomon acquiring great riches.  JWs, remind yourself of what “works” are happening in the organization.
 An extensive history of false prophesy and replaced doctrine (“Beliefs Clarified”), Deut 18:19-22; Jer 23:16; 2 Pet 2:1-3  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deut+18%3A19-22%3B+Jer+23%3A16%3B+2+Pet+2%3A1-3&version=NKJV
Lawsuits over pedophilia are numerous.  Jer 6:13,14; Ezek 34:2-4; Acts 20:29; Prov 17:15  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jer+6%3A13%2C14%3B+Ezek+34%3A2-4%3B+Acts+20%3A29%3B+Prov+17%3A15&version=NKJV
JWs are recently banned in Russia and all material assets have been confiscated.   Deut 12:28; 2 Chron 16:7-9; 2 Chron 7:13,14; Isa 48:18; Heb 3:7-13  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=.+++Deut+12%3A28%3B+2+Chron+16%3A7-9%3B+2+Chron+7%3A13%2C14%3B+Isa+48%3A18%3B+Heb+3%3A7-13&version=NKJV
 Disfellowshipping anointed and all for turning to Christ and rejecting the “mark of the Beast”/organization, its lies and idolatry.  Mark 8:31; John 15:20; Matt 5:10,11; John 16:2; Rev 13:15-17; Eph 5:11    https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=.++Mark+8%3A31%3B+John+15%3A20%3B+Matt+5%3A10%2C11%3B+John+16%3A2%3B+Rev+13%3A15-17%3B+Eph+5%3A11++++&version=NKJV
As well as the “trampling” of the Temple anointed priesthood of God by the “man of lawlessness”/elder body. Matt 24:15; Luke 21:24; Dan 11:31,32,36; Rev 11:2  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+24%3A15%3B+Luke+21%3A24%3B+Dan+11%3A31%2C32%2C36%3B+Rev+11%3A2&version=NKJV
None of this would exist if wisdom and knowledge from God was present in the hearts of its leaders. Isa 29:11; Matt 25:4,11,12; James 1:5; Matt 7:7,8; 1 John 2:27; Heb 8:10  Unsettling turmoil reigns within and outside of its boundaries; and Gerrit Losch is making a desperate, hypocritical attempt at covering the governing body’s earlier admittance of lacking ‘inspiration’ from God’s spirit. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isa+29%3A11%3B+Matt+25%3A4%2C11%2C12%3B+James+1%3A5%3B+Matt+7%3A7%2C8%3B+1+John+2%3A27%3B+Heb+8%3A10++&version=NKJV
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”  James 3:17
Who really, has provided the full spectrum of the governing body’s earthly needs?  It isn’t the Father, or Christ.  Satan never promised heavenly wisdom to those who bow down to him, but only the “kingdoms of the world”; which the governing body has been given, with power and authority over God’s Chosen ones, and YOU, JWs!  Matt 4:8,9; Luke 4:5-7; Matt 24:48-51; Rev 13:1,7,8,11,14-17; 2 Thess 2:9-12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt+4%3A8%2C9%3B+Luke+4%3A5-7%3B+Matt+24%3A48-51%3B+Rev+13%3A1%2C7%2C8%2C11%2C14-17%3B+2+Thess+2%3A9-12++&version=NKJV
 Since they have already forfeited their inheritance for all that Satan’s realm provides them, the wisdom from God will never be obtained.  Luke 4:8; James 4:7; 13:2; 16:13,14; Heb 12:14-17; Rev 8:10,11; Amos 8:11; Rev 18:8  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+4%3A8%3B+James+4%3A7%3B+13%3A2%3B+16%3A13%2C14%3B+Heb+12%3A14-17%3B+Rev+8%3A10%2C11%3B+Amos+8%3A11%3B+Rev+18%3A8&version=NKJV
ARMAGEDDON IS HERE – the spiritual battle of truth against lies fought in the valley of “decision”. Joel 3:14   Notice too, the governing body who is so sure of their heavenly destination, is still on the earth.  Instead of ascending into heaven, this composite Harlot will suffer a shocking blow when the organization brings “her” down.  Rev 17:12-18  https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joel+3%3A14%3B+Rev+17%3A12-18&version=NKJV
(“ARMAGEDDON” 4womaninthewilderness)
From Pearl Doxsey’s, “Eighth King / Punishment of the Great Harlot”:
“Many that leave the Org. today, do not do so out of a love of truth. Most reasons are selfish ones.
But we should take note that Rev.18:4 tells us to get out of the covenant of death ("Babylon the Great") and her present harlot daughter, IF WE DO NOT WANT TO SHARE IN HER SINS AND RECEIVE PART OF HER PLAGUES.
Getting out of her would no longer be possible, if she is already gone.
    It should also be noted, that God is telling His own people to get out ("my people" Rev.18:4). 
    He is addressing His own priests (1Pet.2:10,9; Eze.37:23,27; 2Cor.6:16; Rev.21:3)
    This is a conundrum for the WT. They teach that "Babylon the Great" is "Christendom".
    Yet they also teach that there are no anointed in "Christendom". So how is it that
    the anointed would be commanded to come out of "Christendom"? 
    No...God's chosen priests are being commanded to come out of what was God's City,
    which has now turned their back on God, under the wicked steward's leadership.”
**Side note:  The rest of the anointed are now, not considered part of the “faithful and discreet slave” as a result of “new light”.   Their “heavenly reward” apparently is not a done deal, as is the "slave's".
“Do the other sheep need to know the names of all anointed ones still on earth today? No. Why not? Because it is not possible for anyone to know for sure that these ones will get their reward.”  Wt 16/1 pp. 20-26
Since this sifting has occurred and only 8 men are considered the “slave”, prophesy of the “wicked slave” has been fulfilled.  This quote from the Wt. alone and Losch’s cocksure words above, shows the demeaning, psychological beating down of its “fellow slaves”.  Matt 24:48-51 (Matt 25:14-30)
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give them food at the proper time?” ….rejected and failed doctrine and publications is not “food at the proper time”, or “meat in due season”.  John 6:27; Matt 7:19,20
“Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing his job when he comes. 47 Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 48 But if that wicked servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delayed,’ …how many failed Armageddon dates and “this generation” teachings are there? 
 “and starts to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards,”….who parrots the words of the GB but the elder body given power over the "holy ones" and drunk on the Harlot’s wine?  Whatever decree the GB orders, the elder body carries out, against Christ’s “kings of the earth”.  Rev 17:1-6; 13:1,5-7,11,12-17
50 that servant’s master will come on a day he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know. 51 He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
I implore you, JWs, wake up!
 
 

You believe today's Watchtower lie about the Body of Christ.   The above written in 1963, was surprisingly, truth. How long have you been a JW?  

You left me hanging there.  Not sure what your point is.  Jesus Christ is the “High Priest” of God’s priesthood.  Heb 7:26,27
You really believe Christ expected them to OBEY these traditions of men when he said, “come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden”?  He specifically told his disciples, “They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger.
Does God and Jesus suggest us to ingest the “leaven” of false teachers?  Matt 16:6   Teaching anything beyond scripture is the sign of a false teacher.  You do know what John the Baptist preached about?
 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying:
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”  Matt 3:1-3
He told all of them, “bear fruits worthy of repentance”.  If we repent from following traditions of men who lay unnecessary burdens on us, does this mean we are to keep following them?  ADDITION - does this mean we are to obey the those additional traditions and laws that are a 'heavy load'? 
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her. How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!35 See, your house is abandoned to you. I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say,’ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord’!” Luke 13:34,35
The apostles came on the scene, teaching truth from Christ.  The entire Jewish system of that day lost God's favor with the coming of Christ; yet, they were the first to be given the opportunity to gain life through him - if they obeyed HIS teachings.  This is our choice today; we either continue following men and their added burdens of lies, or we repent and follow Christ.  
The traditions, added laws of men are “not the entire word of God”.    They are not scripture. 
Regarding Hebrews 13:17, it refers to those within the anointed Body of Christ - his priesthood.  1 Pet 2:5,9; Heb 13:15 Who were the early leaders?  Primarily, at that time they were the foundation of the Body/Temple - the apostles who directed or led people to Christ. Yes, being a "leader" is a noted gift within the anointed priesthood.  Rom 12:8   Their entire message was about Christ, "leading" people to him.    
The organization’s leaders are the image of the Pharisees, setting up their own regulations far from the commandments of God; and like the Pharisees , the GB/elder body “lead” people away from Jesus Christ, to an idol – organization - today's "Jewish" system of corruption.  Mal 3:1-3; Rev 13:5-8
The law is summed in one word, love.  “Heavy burdens” of men’s rules and regulations do not reflect love.   Matt 22:37-40; Gal 5:14
 
 

According to scripture, what is the Body of Christ - who comprise it?

Cool your jets a bit.
John 2:19-22 -  Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”
20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” 21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.
The Body of Christ = the temple
Matt 16:18 - And I tell you that you are Peter ( for rock), and on this rock ("large rock", "a mass of stones") I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
Church:  ἐκκλησία ekklēsía, ek-klay-see'-ah; from a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both):—assembly, church.
Would he build his “church” from those who were not ‘called out’, as the apostles were?  Jesus laid the foundation as the chief cornerstone of the new Temple/Body.  The foundation stones were the apostles and prophets. 
All who were called out are considered “stones”/”rock”. 
Rom 1:1 - Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—
Rom 1:7 - To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Eph 4:4 - There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling
Rev 17:14 - They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”
This is the “144,000” priests/kings of God. The anointed ones.
1 Pet 2:5,9 - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. ("I will build my church")
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
The “spiritual house” built of stones is the Temple of God. It is the church/Body.
You, are adding those to the “church” who are not “living stones” of the Body of Christ.
It is clear in scripture that the anointed are this “church” – “spiritual house” – TEMPLE of God.
2 Cor 6:16 - What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
Again, the temple is built of “stones”, and the stones are the royal priesthood, which comprise the Body of Christ.
1 Cor 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your bodyand in your spirit, which are God’s.
The royal priesthood is God’s “spiritual house”, His dwelling place. ("I will walk among them")
1 Cor 3:16,17 - Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.
Eph 2:19-22 - Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. ("I will build my church")
The “saints” are built on Christ’s Body, creating a Temple of “living stones”. 
The purpose?  To serve the rest of the children in God’s Kingdom.  So, step back and take a look at what God is building.  He is refining and forming a people for Himself to serve the greater needs of His children to come.  They must prove themselves worthy enough to be be found faithful and able to serve as God's priests; who, in the early temple arrangement, always served and taught the people of Israel.  Mal 2:7  Yes, they will be Christ’s “kings” – righteous kings, who direct and teach God’s children in love, just as their High Priest/King/Head of the Body.  
Romans 12 describes the anointed as individual members of Christ’s Body.    
As does 1 Cor 12:
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For in fact the body is not one member but many. 1 Cor 12:12,13
What did Jesus say his Body was? 
John 2:21 - But the temple he had spoken of was his body
It is the Temple of “living stones” – the royal priesthood.
“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord,
“And My servant whom I have chosen,
That you may know and believe Me,
And understand that I am He.
Before Me there was no God formed,
Nor shall there be after Me.  Isa 43:10
 
 
 
 
 

Cool your jets a bit.
John 2:19-22 -  Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”
20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” 21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.
The Body of Christ = the temple
Matt 16:18 - And I tell you that you are Peter ( for rock), and on this rock ("large rock", "a mass of stones") I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
Church:  ἐκκλησία ekklēsía, ek-klay-see'-ah; from a compound of G1537 and a derivative of G2564; a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both):—assembly, church.
Would he build his “church” from those who were not ‘called out’, as the apostles were?  Jesus laid the foundation as the chief cornerstone of the new Temple/Body.  The foundation stones were the apostles and prophets. 
All who were called out are considered “stones”/”rock”. 
Rom 1:1 - Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—
Rom 1:7 - To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Eph 4:4 - There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling
Rev 17:14 - They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”
This is the “144,000” priests/kings of God. The anointed ones.
1 Pet 2:5,9 - you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. ("I will build my church")
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
The “spiritual house” built of stones is the Temple of God. It is the church/Body.
You, are adding those to the “church” who are not “living stones” of the Body of Christ.
It is clear in scripture that the anointed are this “church” – “spiritual house” – TEMPLE of God.
2 Cor 6:16 - What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
Again, the temple is built of “stones”, and the stones are the royal priesthood, which comprise the Body of Christ.
1 Cor 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your bodyand in your spirit, which are God’s.
The royal priesthood is God’s “spiritual house”, His dwelling place. ("I will walk among them")
1 Cor 3:16,17 - Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.
Eph 2:19-22 - Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. ("I will build my church")
The “saints” are built on Christ’s Body, creating a Temple of “living stones”. 
The purpose?  To serve the rest of the children in God’s Kingdom.  So, step back and take a look at what God is building.  He is refining and forming a people for Himself to serve the greater needs of His children to come.  They must prove themselves worthy enough to be be found faithful and able to serve as God's priests; who, in the early temple arrangement, always served and taught the people of Israel.  Mal 2:7  Yes, they will be Christ’s “kings” – righteous kings, who direct and teach God’s children in love, just as their High Priest/King/Head of the Body.  
Romans 12 describes the anointed as individual members of Christ’s Body.    
As does 1 Cor 12:
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For in fact the body is not one member but many. 1 Cor 12:12,13
What did Jesus say his Body was? 
John 2:21 - But the temple he had spoken of was his body
It is the Temple of “living stones” – the royal priesthood.
“You are My witnesses,” says the Lord,
“And My servant whom I have chosen,
That you may know and believe Me,
And understand that I am He.
Before Me there was no God formed,
Nor shall there be after Me.  Isa 43:10
 
 
 
 
 

According to scripture, what is the Body of Christ - who comprise it?